How to Say “Starbucks” in Italian

Did you know?

• In Italy, the word Starbucks is often used by locals as a symbol of 'Americanization' or the loss of traditional coffee culture. Calling a cafe a 'Starbucks' can sometimes be a subtle way of criticizing it for being too commercial.
• In many Italian cities, the opening of a Starbucks is often accompanied by local protests or debates in the media regarding the 'sacrality' of the Italian coffee ritual. It is rarely viewed as just another business opening, but rather as a cultural event.
• While an English speaker might say they are 'going for coffee', an Italian might say they are going to 'il bar' to avoid the connotation of an American chain like Starbucks. In Italy, the word 'bar' refers to the local establishment where you drink espresso, not a place that primarily serves alcohol.